Louisville, KY (02/02/11) – Lyndon Fire and Rescue has recently been awarded an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the Federal Government. The grant, in the amount of $51,745, will be used to enhance the department’s Information Technology Systems.

Chief Russ Rakestraw commented on the grant, stating that “it comes to us during a very difficult financial period for the department, and the timing couldn’t be better.”

“Even in the toughest of times, it is critical that our first responders have the resources they need to help protect our neighborhoods,” said Congressman John Yarmuth (KY-3), who joined Chief Rakestraw to announce the federal funding. “I am proud to support this federal investment that will be utilized by the Lyndon fire department to better equip our brave firefighters and keep our communities and families safer.”

The department will utilize the grant to purchase laptop computers, which will be put into service as Mobile Data Terminals (MDT’s). In addition to the MDT’s, a software upgrade will be installed to facilitate the input and access of pertinent field information.

“The MDT’s are an important aspect of our job, and enable us to gather information about various types of properties and incidents that we wouldn’t otherwise have immediate access to”, said Chief Rakestraw. “In addition, these devices allow us to enhance our interoperability with our mutual aid departments, and give us the ability to identify target hazards and make informed tactical decisions.”

The computers will be purchased in the immediate future, and will be installed on frontline fire apparatus as well as in command vehicles.

“Without this grant, these upgrades would not be possible due to our current budget constraints. We are grateful for this opportunity”, Chief Rakestraw said.